Water Department Updates - OCT 16, 2024 - County Briefing

Water Department Updates: Recap of October 16th Meeting

On October 16, 2024, the City of Asheville held a meeting to update residents on the ongoing restoration efforts following damage to the city's water system caused by Hurricane Helene, which struck on September 25th. The meeting, attended by city officials and water department personnel, focused primarily on providing information to the public regarding the current state of repairs and anticipated timelines. No formal votes were taken during this briefing, emphasizing its informational nature.

The primary focus of the meeting was a detailed overview of the restoration progress, acknowledging both significant strides and remaining challenges. Discussions centered on several key areas: the impact of Hurricane Helene on various service zones, particularly highlighting difficulties in the Eastmore and B-Tree areas; ongoing stabilization work to restore service to approximately 40 homes in the B-Tree area; and crucial efforts at the North Fork Reservoir to clear sediment and improve water quality. City officials explained that a temporary two-inch pipe is being installed in the Eastmore area (Old Farm School Road) to provide some service, though residents should anticipate reduced water pressure. Stabilization work in the B-Tree area is expected to be completed late today or early tomorrow, restoring service.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to explaining the ongoing treatment process at the North Fork Reservoir. Crews are applying aluminum sulfate and caustic soda to clump sediment, allowing it to settle and improve water clarity. A clearer timeline for this treatment is expected by Friday. Importantly, a system-wide boil water notice remains in effect for all customers served by the City of Asheville (including Mills River and North Fork) due to potential mixing zones. Officials repeatedly stressed that this notice remains in place, despite the progress made, and residents should continue to boil water for at least one minute before consumption.

City Manager Campbell expressed gratitude towards the Public Works Department, contractors (including T&P Howard, Tanoka, and Ed Holmes Surveying), the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and the community for their resilience and hard work. Clay Chandler, Public Information Officer, provided detailed explanations of the challenges faced in specific areas and clarified that while maps indicate service restoration, it doesn't guarantee full water pressure for every resident.

What Happens Next? (Action Items)

• Eastmore Area: Contractor TP Howard will continue clearing debris and repairing the six-inch line today.
• B-Tree Area: Water Resources crews will complete backfilling work on the line serving this area, expected to be finished late today or early tomorrow.
• North Fork Reservoir: Application of treatment chemicals is underway, with an assessment of the timeline expected by Friday.
• Ongoing Monitoring & Communication: City officials emphasized their commitment to continuous monitoring of the system and providing regular updates to residents.

Why This Matters to You (Impact)

The restoration of Asheville’s water system is a top priority, and this meeting provided valuable insight into the ongoing efforts. Residents should continue to adhere to the boil water notice and be aware of potential reduced pressure in the Eastmore area. For detailed information, including acceptable practices during the boil water notice (such as dishwashing), please visit AshevilleNC.gov/lean. The city is committed to keeping residents informed as progress continues toward a full restoration of the water system.